Clough said: “He will go back to Villa because they want to keep him but he is one we would certainly look at trying to get back for next season for a loan spell. He is a great lad to work with and most importantly he is a good player.”

Central defender Clark, 19, was an unused substitute at Bolton last weekend and is captain of the England under-19s.

Striker Collins, 18, has been prolific for the Acedemy this season and also scored goals for the reserves.

Both may soon be catapulted into the senior ranks.

O’Neill said: “We will have a look at the young players like Clark and Collins.

“We will see how they are next season.

“As you can see with Bannan, I have no problem in loaning players out to real sensible clubs who might look after them and improve them.

“One or two, I am hoping, will be knocking on the door more quickly than others.

“It’s all very encouraging.”

O’Neill admits to a debt of gratitude to reserve coach Kevin MacDonald for bringing out the best in the youngesters who won the reserve title on Monday.

“I am really delighted for the young boys. Their application has been brilliant,” O’Neill said. “The play has been terrific and it augers well.

“It is a continuation of the youth team of last season and that is really pleasing.

“Winning the title was great. I am very pleased for Kevin MacDonald, who at any given Monday evening, can be left with anything.

“I’ve said to him ‘No, he’s not playing’ and he has got on with it.”

? Villa Reserves will take on Sunderland in the Premier Reserve League play-off on Thursday May 21.

The game at Villa Park between the north and south champions kicks off at 7pm.